Our happiest family photo made me realize how overweight I had become.
March of this year became a turning point for me. I was determined to eat healthier, become more active, and lose weight. It was hard to admit that I was unhappy with my body. I was tired of not having enough energy and “outgrowing” my favorite clothes.
I secretly joined one of those online weight loss programs.
I didn’t tell my husband until I was a couple of weeks into the program. The shocked look on his face quickly turned into one of support. “If that’s what you want, I’ll help you however I can.” And he meant it.
Why had I been afraid to tell him? I felt as if I was betraying him because I was no longer in love with my body. I felt as if I was betraying myself because I’ve always embraced my voluptuous curves. I’ve never felt the need to be skinny.
My husband could not care less if I lost weight or not. He’s seen my body gain the freshman 15. He’s been by my side as both our children grew inside me. He’s seen me at my best and my worst (like in the hospital birthing room). He tells me every day how beautiful I am. For extra credit, he even tells me how sexy he finds me. His ardor for me has only grown during the course of our marriage.
Since March, I’ve lost a total of 25 pounds. I’ve only told a few close friends that I was on a weight-loss journey. My husband has been one of my biggest supporters. He made sure that the restaurants we visited had options that fit my weight loss plan. He accompanied me on walks at the park. He even started to eat healthier. I guess I’m rubbing off on him. Together, we’ve made small lifestyle changes to become healthier.
He’s happy because I’m happier.
I’m not saying losing weight has solved all my problems, but watching what I eat and when I consume it taught me a lot about myself. I realized I ate when I was bored or stressed. I’ve never been a skinny person. I was a chubby kid. But being able to find clothes that look stylish and actually fit is a huge confidence booster. Since I’ve become more active, I’m in better shape.
Which means our bedroom exercises have been extremely rewarding.
Photo: Getty
